Identity documents in Italy (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: The identity card is issued on request and is not compulsory in general. Foreigners must show their passport or identity document when ordered by public security officers.

RuleWhat applies
Duty to carry or show IDIdentity documentsNo general duty to carry [1]
National ID card compulsory for citizensIdentity documentsNo [1]
ID duty for foreign visitorsIdentity documentsA foreigner must show a passport or other identity document, and a residence permit or other proof of lawful presence, when public security officers order it. Refusing without a justified reason is a criminal offence. [2]
EU citizens may enter with a national ID cardIdentity documentsYes [3]
Document for British citizensIdentity documentsBritish citizens need a valid passport. It must have been issued less than 10 years before arrival and expire at least 3 months after the planned departure from the Schengen area. Entry is refused without a valid travel document. [4]

Notes

  • The authorities may order dangerous or suspect persons to obtain an identity card and show it on every request. The law does not set this as a general duty.
  • The mayor issues the card to residents over 15 when they ask for it.
  • The law speaks of foreigners (stranieri). Whether EU citizens fall under this provision was not checked here.

Sources

  1. Ministero dell'Interno (Prefettura): R.D. 18 giugno 1931, n. 773: Approvazione del testo unico delle leggi di pubblica sicurezza (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Normattiva (Presidenza del Consiglio dei ministri): Decreto legislativo 25 luglio 1998, n. 286, art. 6 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. European Union (EUR-Lex): Directive 2004/38/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  4. UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (GOV.UK): Italy travel advice: Entry requirements (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.